Orionid meteor shower to peak on October 21

Washington, October 17 (ANI): Reports indicate that this year's Orionid meteor shower would peak on October 21, and could produce up to 20 meteors per hour.

This year's best viewing will be in the hours before dawn on October 21.

The view should be especially good this year, as the crescent Moon will remain below the horizon, with no chance to overpower the light from meteors streaking across the sky.

Orionid meteors appear to fall from above the star Betelgeuse, the bright orange star marking the shoulder of the constellation Orion.

They are not associated with this star or constellation, but instead are leftover debris from Halley's Comet.

The Orionid meteors recur each year when Earth passes through the comet's debris trail.

Astronomers recommend that people seeking the best view should get away from city lights and look for state or city parks or other safe, dark sites. (ANI)